A photo posted by David Evans (@david_3vans) on Jan 28, 2016 at 1:11pm PST

The new requirements for cyclists include having to carry photo ID and boosted fines, ranging up to $319 for not wearing a helmet, up to $425 for running a red light, and up to $319 for holding onto a moving vehicle.

An online petition against the bike helmet penalty increases has so far gained more than 4,500 supporters.

The government says the new rules are needed to improve safety for cyclists, with an average 11 bicycle riders killed and 1500 seriously injured in NSW each year.

The reforms also impose obligations on drivers. They mean motor vehicles that pass a bicycle rider must allow a distance of at least 1 metre when the speed limit is 60km/h or less, and 1.5 metres when the speed limit is more than 60km/h.